Sports
Man Utd Want to Sign Lille Star Ayyoub Bouaddi
Manchester United have earmarked Lille starlet Ayyoub Bouaddi as a potential midfield target alongside Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson, Sky Sports News journalist Lyall Thomas has revealed.
The Old Trafford side are prioritising the signing of at least one new midfielder in 2026 and are expected to step up their plans during the summer transfer window.
While they remain alert to any January opportunities, United currently look unlikely to secure any of their top targets, which also include Crystal Palace ace Adam Wharton.
Bouaddi is reportedly being considered among several other young prospects, along with Olympiakos rising star Christos Mouzakitis.
Man Utd Keen on Ayyoub Bouaddi
According to Thomas, United could sign two central midfielders in 2026 and are tracking both Bouaddi and Mouzakitis as options for the future.
Bouaddi has emerged as one of the most exciting young midfielders in France over the past 12 months, during which he has become an important player for Lille.
The ‘exceptional’ 18-year-old already has 74 senior appearances to his name for the Ligue 1 side, including 47 league games, where he has registered two assists to date.
While he mostly operates in central midfield, Bouaddi can also play in a more defensive role, shielding the back four, and has drawn comparisons with Liverpool star Curtis Jones due to similarities in his style of play.
Bouaddi, who joined Lille’s youth ranks in the summer of 2021, is under contract with the club until the end of the 2028/29 season.
Man Utd Discuss Move for Ruben Neves
United are on the lookout for opportunities to upgrade Ruben Amorim’s squad this month and have recently discussed a move for Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves.
The Portugal international’s contract expires at the end of the season and multiple clubs have been put on alert as a result, with Neves keeping his options open.
According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, Neves also has an offer to extend his Al-Hilal stay by another two years, while United have yet to make any move for the 28-year-old.
Joshua Zirkzee Departure Complicated
While their prospects of securing new signings in January look bleak, United are also reluctant to entertain any outgoings, including Joshua Zirkzee.
The Dutch international remains a target for Serie A side Roma, but his departure is likely to require United to secure a replacement during the winter window.
Man Utd In Talks Over Sekou Kone Leaving in January on Loan
Sources: Man Utd are in talks to allow highly-rated midfield star Sekou Kone to leave on loan in January, amid interest from Switzerland and Belgium
